On Travel Archives

Summer 2024 left many travelers regretting their vacation choices. From booking the wrong airlines to overstuffing itineraries, the mistakes were costly. I learned the hard way—overpaying for an airfare that drained my budget. And what about that missed opportunity to visit an iconic spot? With the new iPhone in hand, these regrets could have been avoided with better planning and advice from a travel pro. Don’t let these mistakes ruin your next vacation. Plan smarter for the upcoming seasons.

Summer’s over. What are your top vacation regrets?

October 10, 2024September 15, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Flying a budget airline. Staying at a bad hotel. Traveling with the wrong people.
Vacation regrets, you may have a few for the summer of 2024. More than a few, actually.

When traveling, saying the wrong thing can quickly lead to poor service. Businesses claim to offer excellent customer care, but their employees, being human, may react negatively if you disrespect them. Say something like "Do you know who I am?" or "I'll sue," and you might find yourself with the worst seat or service available. To avoid this, it’s crucial to say things calmly, stick to the facts, and treat employees with respect. A friendly word can go a long way in ensuring a better travel experience.

Traveling? Here’s what to say if you want to get the worst treatment — guaranteed!

December 2, 2024September 8, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

It’s easy to get treated like a second-class citizen when you travel: Just say the wrong thing. That’s an undeniable fact that people are rediscovering during the busiest year in the history of modern travel.

Travelers reached their breaking point this summer. Is loyalty dead?

September 5, 2024September 1, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

When it comes to travel, is loyalty dead?
That’s the question many travelers have been asking themselves during a record-breaking summer.

Overpacking is a common issue for many travelers, driven by insecurities, stress, and inexperience. With airlines raking in billions from luggage fees, it's time to rethink how much you really need to bring on your trips. From witnessing tourists struggling with oversized bags in destinations like Interlaken, Rio de Janeiro, and Bangkok, to hearing experts explain why we pack too much, this article offers insights and practical tips to help you pack smarter. Embrace minimalism, adjust your travel expectations, and avoid unnecessary fees on your next adventure.

You’re overpacking! Here’s how to lighten up when you travel

September 5, 2024August 25, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

You’re carrying too much luggage. Here’s how to lighten up.

Traveling recently? You're not alone if you've encountered laughably bad customer service. I lost my credit card last week, and my bank botched the replacement, sending it to the wrong address. Now, I'm stuck on endless calls with unhelpful representatives. The travel industry isn't faring any better, with record complaints and declining service quality. Airlines, car rentals, and hotels are scoring low in customer satisfaction. As travel booms, companies are taking customers for granted. Learn why this is happening and what you can do to manage the situation effectively.

Want better customer service when you travel? You must be joking

November 17, 2024August 18, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

If you think customer service is a joke, you’ve probably been traveling recently.

Richard Campbell experienced a nightmarish encounter with bedbugs at a small hotel in Italy's Cinque Terre. Awaking to bites on his arms and legs, he discovered bugs on the headboard and wall. The hotel owners, horrified, immediately took action by moving him to another room, laundering his clothes, and fumigating the room. They even refunded his stay and compensated him. Insect encounters, from bedbugs to ants and mosquitoes, are on the rise due to increased travel and climate change. Travelers should be prepared and know their rights when dealing with these pesky intruders.

Insects on vacation: How to spot them and how to avoid them

August 31, 2024August 11, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Insects are coming for your next vacation.

John Smaistrla, a civil engineer from Houston, had a close call with a pickpocket on the Paris Métro Line 3. He felt a bump but thought nothing of it until he noticed his pants pocket zippers partially open. Thankfully, his wallet was still there, thanks to his secure travel shorts with triple-secure pockets. Pickpocketing is a growing issue for travelers, with thousands of Americans reporting stolen passports yearly. Experts advise using zippered pockets, crossbody bags, and being vigilant in crowded areas to prevent falling victim to these skilled thieves.

Traveling somewhere? Here’s how not to be a pickpocket victim

August 31, 2024August 4, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

On a recent trip to Paris, John Smaistrla was just a bump away from becoming a pickpocket victim.

This summer, angry air travelers are reaching new heights of tension and frustration. Passengers like Leigh Shulman, who recently navigated an airport with a broken ankle, are finding themselves overwhelmed by rudeness and stress. With packed flights, divisive politics, and aggravating fees, it's no wonder tempers are flaring. Incidents of unruly behavior are making headlines, and the statistics are troubling. Experts say the key to surviving this summer of not-so-fun travel lies in managing stress and showing compassion. Can you keep your cool in the skies? Discover essential tips for a calmer journey.

Angry air travelers lash out at each other during the summer of not-so-fun travel. Here’s how to handle it.

August 2, 2024July 27, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Is it my imagination, or are air travelers getting angrier at each other this summer?

Airline space shortages are forcing passengers to stuff unusual items under their seats, leading to surprising consequences. With increased luggage fees and reduced cabin space, the battle for personal space has intensified. Passengers are trying to fit everything from fragile medical devices to oversized coolers and rollaboards under their seats. The cramped conditions raise safety concerns and lead to discomfort. The unpredictable amount of legroom and airlines' lack of transparency about space reductions add to the chaos. What bizarre items are people squeezing under their seats, and how is it affecting their flights?

That doesn’t go under the seat! Space shortage is squeezing airline passengers

July 27, 2024July 20, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

A fragile medical device. An overstuffed rollaboard. A large cooler filled with snacks.You’d be shocked by what passengers are trying to fit under their economy class seats these days.

Why are airlines being so nice to you?

July 15, 2024July 13, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Airlines are shedding fees, giving away free stuff, and being extra nice to their customers. Has the world gone mad?

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